The Secret to Longterm Health? Go Outside

In addition to the obvious benefits of exercise and fresh air, getting outside may be health protective in other ways, too. Lack of sunlight and lack of exposure to symbiotic microbes (or, as scientists say, our "Old Friends") are considered top theories for the rise in so-called "modern diseases," including allergies, asthma, autoimmune disorders and some types of cancer. Happily these theories point in one direction, the one most parents love to give their kids: GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY!